Thailand has made digital arrival card mandatory to international tourists at entry points.

Unlike the previously existing TM6 card which has been suspended temporarily, the digital card becomes mandatory of all foreign arrivals except upon Thai citizens. Travelers will get a confirmation, which they should keep handy either on their mobile devices or printed for presentation at immigration checkpoints. There are no fees involved with the application, hence making it hassle-free for travelers.

The big change is being implemented on Thailand's entry process for foreign entrance by requiring a Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival, starting from 1 May 2025. The new digital system is aimed at replacing the old paper based TM6 form, and it applies to all non-Thai citizens arriving by air, land, or sea, whether visa-exempt or visa-requiring. The aim is to streamline immigration checks, reduce processing times, and improve border security.

The TDAC has to be filled out online within the time frame of 72 hours prior to travel and to be submitted through the official portal, (tdac.immigration.go.th) (https://tdac.immigration.go.th). Unlike the past TM6, which has been suspended temporarily, the digital card is now must for all foreign travelers with Thai nationals as the exception. The travelers will be granted a confirmation which they should carry digitally or in printed form for presentation at the immigration counters.

The official emphasize that the shift to a fully digital system consistent with global travel trends, such as Singapore's SG Arrival Card and the EU's ETIAS. "This upgrade will make entry smoother for tourists improved ability to manage visitors flows securely," spoken person of the Immigration Bureau said. This change comes as Thailand gets ready to welcome a huge influx of tourists with a target of 40 million foreign visitors in 2025, up from 35.5 million in 2024. 

The tourism industry embraced the initiative with airline and hotels, They had already informed their guests regarding the new requirement. Travel experts recommend completing the TDSC as soon as flight or border-crossing plans get confirmed as this could save hasty and last-minute issues. "It is an easy process, but doing it early ensures a hassle-free entitlement for startup the trip," said Bangkok-based tour operator. There are no fees involved for the application, as it's simply one more hassle-free thing for the travelers. 

Although the digital system is designed to make life easy, authorities alert that non-compliance might lead to delays. Unlike the previous suspension of the TM6 form, the TDAC will be checked strictly, so any traveler who does not get approval will go through additional screening.

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is going to plan international awareness campaign, by joining embassies and airlines for bringing extensive understanding of the rules before May ends. 
 

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